BLACK HISTORY MONTH by Sheryl Jordan

Origins

The observation of Black history was originally called “Negro History Week” in 1926. Carter G. Woodson, a historian of African American Life and History, established it. The week was chosen to coincide with Abraham Lincoln’s and Frederick Douglass’ birthdays, February 12^, 1809, and February 14, 1818. President Gerald Ford officially recognized February as Black History Month in 1976, and since then, it has been celebrated annually in the United States and Canada.

Honoring Achievements and Inspiring Progress

Black History Month is a time dedicated to recognizing the achievements, contributions, and history of Black Americans. It encourages reflection on the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the nation, from the fight for civil rights to the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice. It recounts the stories of significant figures, events, and movements that have profoundly marked American society.

In addition to honoring the past, Black History Month is a reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion. It invites everyone to acknowledge ongoing challenges and to cultivate a deeper understanding of how embracing different perspectives strengthens communities. By celebrating Black history, we not only pay tribute to those who paved the way but also inspire future generations to continue striving for progress and unity.

Unsung Heroes and Their Long-Lasting Impact

Although figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Harriet Tubman are widely celebrated for their influence, numerous other activists have made significant contributions that have not received the same recognition. The experiences and achievements of these individuals highlight the depth and diversity of Black History, demonstrating that a multitude of voices and perspectives shape it.

A Few Lesser-Known Activists Who Changed History

• Bayard Rustin: A master strategist and organizer, Rustin was the driving force behind the 1963 March on Washington. Despite his pivotal role, Rustin’s legacy was often overshadowed due to his identity as an openly gay man in a time of widespread discrimination. [wanderingsmileys.com], [lovewhatmatters.com]
• Claudette Colvin: Nine months before Rosa Parks, Colvin—a teenager—refused to give up her seat on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. Her courageous act was instrumental in challenging segregation laws and paved the way for the Civil Rights Movement. [backintimetoday.com], [parade.com]
• Bessie Coleman: The first African American woman to earn a pilot’s license, Coleman broke barriers in aviation. Denied entry to American flight schools because of her race and gender, she moved to France to achieve her dream, inspiring generations of aviators. [katiecouric.com], [backintimetoday.com]
• Mary Ellen Pleasant: Known as the “Mother of Human Rights” in California, Pleasant was a wealthy entrepreneur who used her resources to support abolitionist causes and fight for civil rights. [historycol...ection.com]
• Jane Bolin: The nation’s first Black woman judge, Bolin served on New York’s Family Court for four decades and worked to end racial discrimination in the justice system. [marieclaire.com]
• Alice Allison Dunnigan: The first African-American female White House correspondent, Dunnigan broke barriers in journalism and advocated for equal access to information. [marieclaire.com]
• Marsha P. Johnson: A prominent activist for LGBTQ+ rights and racial justice, Johnson played a key role in the Stonewall uprising and advocated for marginalized communities. [katiecouric.com]
• Matthew Henson: An explorer who was the first to reach the North Pole, Henson’s achievements were often overlooked despite his critical role in Arctic expeditions.

Influence on American Culture

Black history is woven into the fabric of American culture, shaping music, art, literature, cuisine, sports, fashion, language, and social movements. The contributions of Black Americans are not just historical—they actively energize and redefine what it means to be American today.

Music and Dance

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  Jazz, Blues, and Hip-Hop: Jazz and blues, rooted in African musical traditions, became the backbone of American music, inspiring genres like rock, R&B, and hip-hop. Hip-hop, with its origins in African oral traditions, is now a global force, influencing language, fashion, and social activism. [historycol...ection.com], [americarewind.com]
• Dance Styles: African rhythms and movement have shaped American dance, from tap and breakdancing to stepping and ballet. [vividexamples.com]

Cuisine

• Soul Food: Classic dishes like collard greens, cornbread, black-eyed peas, and fried chicken blend African culinary traditions with local American foods, creating meals cherished nationwide. Gumbo and jambalaya are flavorful fusions that reflect the diversity of American cuisine. [historycol...ection.com], [vividexamples.com]

Art and Literature

• Visual Arts: Artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat, Kara Walker, and Faith Ringgold use their work to spark conversations about race, identity, and social justice, influencing both American and global art scenes. [fiftynifty...ndmore.com]
• Literature: Writers such as Langston Hughes, Toni Morrison, and James Baldwin have shaped American literature, providing insight into the Black experience and challenging societal norms. [vividexamples.com]

Fashion and Language

• Fashion: Afro hairstyles, dashikis, and streetwear are expressions of identity and pride, influencing mainstream trends and celebrating African heritage. [vividexamples.com]
• Language: Words and phrases originating from Black communities have become part of everyday American vernacular, enriching the nation’s linguistic diversity. [blackinclu...onweek.org]

Sports and Politics

• Sports Icons: Athletes like Serena Williams and Simone Biles have broken records and expanded conversations around mental health and resilience, advocating for change in traditionally exclusive spaces. [blackamericaweb.com]
• Political Milestones: Barack Obama’s presidency and Kamala Harris’s vice presidency are milestones that symbolize progress and representation, inspiring millions. [blackamericaweb.com]

Social Movements

• Civil Rights and Black Lives Matter: The Civil Rights Movement and contemporary activism like Black Lives Matter have shaped American values, laws, and social consciousness, reinforcing the importance of justice and equality. [blackinclu...onweek.org]

Black history is not confined to the past; it is a living, evolving force that continues to shape American culture in profound ways. From music and art to food and social justice, the influence of Black Americans enriches the nation’s identity and inspires progress toward a more inclusive society

Shaping Modern Social Movements

Black history is the foundation upon which today’s social movements are built. The achievements, struggles, and strategies of Black Americans have profoundly influenced how modern activism is organized, communicated, and sustained.

Historical Roots and Inspiration

• The abolitionist movement, Reconstruction, and the Harlem Renaissance established early models of resistance, community building, and cultural pride. These movements demonstrated the power of collective action and creative expression in challenging oppression. [tnj.com]
• The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s, led by figures like Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Malcolm X, pioneered tactics such as nonviolent protest, civil disobedience, and grassroots organizing. These strategies remain central to contemporary movements like Black Lives Matter. [blacklives...school.org]

Continuity and Evolution

• Modern social movements draw direct inspiration from historical leaders and events. The philosophies of nonviolence, self-determination, and intersectionality—first articulated by Black activists—continue to guide today’s campaigns for justice and equality. [blacklives...school.org]
• Grassroots organizing, mass protests, and the use of media to amplify voices were refined during the Civil Rights era and are now enhanced by digital platforms and social media. [ashp.cuny.edu]

Influence on Broader Social Justice

• Black history has not only shaped movements for racial justice but has also inspired other liberation struggles, including those for women’s rights, LGBTQ+ equality, and immigrant justice. The pursuit of civil rights by Black Americans set precedents for legal and social change that benefit all marginalized groups. [loc.gov]
• The legacy of Black activism is evident in the ongoing fight against systemic racism, police brutality, voter suppression, and economic inequality. Modern activists build on the lessons of past leaders, adapting their strategies to new challenges. [2021-2025.state.gov]

Educational Empowerment and Community Uplift

• Black history emphasizes the importance of education, community empowerment, and preserving historical memory. These values are central to today’s movements, which seek not only policy change but also cultural transformation and greater representation. [civilright...museum.org]

Black history is more than a record of past achievements—it is a living tradition that shapes the goals, methods, and spirit of modern social movements. By understanding and honoring this history, activists and communities gain the tools and inspiration needed to pursue justice, equality, and lasting change.

Why It Matters for All Americans

Black history is American history; it reveals the struggles for justice, equality, and freedom that have shaped the country’s values and institutions. Understanding Black history is essential for all Americans because it provides a complete and more honest picture of the nation’s past.  Americans gain insight into the resilience, creativity, and leadership that have driven progress.

This knowledge fosters empathy and respect, helping to break down stereotypes and misconceptions. It encourages everyone to recognize the ongoing challenges faced by Black communities and to support efforts toward equity and inclusion. Ultimately, understanding Black history empowers all Americans to build a society that values diversity, celebrates shared achievements, and works together for a more just future.

As Black History Month 2026 comes to an end, I can honestly say I have enjoyed learning even more history, current events, movies, literature, and more. My church included special presentations from the mime ministry, youth ministry, and various chorus ministries throughout the month. My employer also presented their annual Living Museum production, which is always a great event to attend.